Benefits Of Watching Films As A Family And Choosing Films

As a parent, you intuitively know that spending time together as a family is a positive thing. You can enjoy experiences together while also imparting your values to your children. And, research backs up the benefits of family time, in general—and specifically when watching films together. 

South University, for example, reports how parents and children both benefit when spending time together, even when that’s just running errands. Benefits of family time include:

·      Stronger emotional bonds in the family

·      Better communication between members of the family

·      Better school performances

·      Fewer behavioral problems

Another study, this one from Penn State researchers, more specifically talks about when families watch films together. One of the highlights was “how children can gain powerful insights from both the positive and negative themes in movies with the help of coviewing.” 

In other words, with their parents!

The study shows how it’s natural for parents to point out negative things seen in films, perhaps identifying a character who is being dishonest, and then talk about why it’s important to tell the truth. And, as the researcher shared, “they absolutely should” do exactly that.

In addition, they should talk about “positive themes, like how the characters worked together to solve a problem. If you talk about the negative while also capitalizing on the positive, it can be a very production discussion.” 

Another researcher in that same study shares how viewing films with your children helps them to remember key messages from the movies and to develop positive values.

Choosing Age Appropriate Films

When you watch films together, it really does make sense to focus on the age appropriateness. Yes, children are surrounded by media and may see age inappropriate videos when parents aren’t around—and yet, your selection of films to watch together still makes a difference. 

That’s because, when children see what you choose, this helps to define what you find acceptable and what you value—and that sends a message all by itself. Unsure what to pick? There are sites such as KidsInMind.com that provide rating systems for parents. 

Let’s say, for example, you’re especially concerned by the violence that’s in many movies today. If so, then here are two strategies to consider. First, find films that are truly engaging and enjoyable that don’t rely upon violence. In your conversations about the film with your children, while discussing the positive messages in the film and what made it so fun to watch, also find a way to note the lack of violence in it without lecturing. 

Here’s another strategy. If you decide that your young teen is ready to see a film like The Passion of Christ,  where there are graphic scenes that demonstrate the struggle between good and evil, prepare your child ahead of time. Plan how you will share what these scenes of violence represent and be ready to answer tough questions your young teenager may ask you. 

Faith-Based Films

At Called Higher Studios, we believe that faith-based films matter. If you share that belief, then we invite you to check out what becoming a member can mean to you and your family.